PALM COAST, Fla. – For anyone who has ever dreamed of finding buried treasure along Florida’s coastline, the inaugural Collectors Group Lecture Series at Diana Minotti Fine Art & Collectibles offered an evening filled with history, adventure and the possibility that priceless artifacts may be hiding in plain sight.
The gallery recently welcomed Captain Mike Casselino—artist, treasure hunter and maritime historian—to launch the new educational series with an engaging presentation on Spanish shipwrecks, centuries-old coins and the fascinating stories behind Florida’s underwater treasures.
“Captain Mike prepared a wonderful show and tell of deep sea treasures,” said gallery owner Diana Minotti, who created the lecture series to bring collectors, history enthusiasts and artists together for unique educational experiences.
Guests gathered at the gallery to examine authentic artifacts while Casselino explained how Spanish coins were minted, why they circulated throughout the world, and how they continue to be discovered along Florida’s coast.
“The value was in the weight of the coin,” Casselino explained. “They didn’t care whose coin it was as long as it was certified good silver or gold.”
The presentation took attendees on a journey through maritime history, beginning with the Spanish “pieces of eight” and gold doubloons before moving into the shipwrecks scattered beneath Florida’s waters.
“Shipwrecks are not rare,” Casselino told the audience. “You’re walking past treasure all the time.”
He pointed to local examples, noting that Flagler County’s coastline has produced evidence of historic wrecks after major storms and beach erosion. Casselino recalled how a large anchor emerged near Flagler Beach following erosion several years ago and discussed another wreck site farther south where artifacts had appeared before beach renourishment.
Drawing on decades of experience treasure hunting, Casselino shared stories of beachcombers unknowingly passing valuable artifacts and emphasized the importance of researching historical accounts and understanding how storms move sand.
“Sometimes when you hear a story, it could be true,” he said. “I always research. I always watch and listen and look.”
He also explained how powerful winter storms can uncover centuries-old artifacts by shifting sand and concentrating coins and relics into narrow bands along the shoreline.
The evening wasn’t just about history—it was about inspiring curiosity.
Attendee Randy Stapleford described the lecture as an unforgettable adventure.
“Argh Maties—what a night to remember,” Stapleford said. “Listening to Mike is like stepping into an adventure straight out of a pirate’s storybook.”
Stapleford said one of the night’s biggest revelations was learning that Florida’s beaches may still conceal countless treasures from Spanish shipwrecks waiting to be discovered.
Fellow attendee Ed Fuller said the presentation transported guests back to the Age of Sail.
“The event was like going back in time when wooden ships were laden with emeralds, silver and gold,” Fuller said. “They were at the mercy of unpredictable weather and uncharted waters. Treasure was strewn all over the coast. It was informative and a great way to meet new people.”
